Wednesday, January 28, 2009

Last day with Lucas and Matthew

Lucas and Matthew left early Tuesday morning by bus to Quito and then flew out today.  On Monday we had a very full day together as they said their goodbyes.  The Lord has truly blessed with many brothers and sisters in the Lord.  Here's a few pictures from our last day together.  One picture is of me and Camila again.

Deep Sea Fishing

Just before Lucas and Matthew went back to the states, we were able to head down to the coast for a couple days.  It was so much fun to play in the waves.  It was the first time for Matthew, and it had been years for Lucas and I.  We also were able to go deep sea fishing with a bunch of men from the church who were with us.  It was a great time of relaxation and fellowship.

Monday, January 19, 2009

New Member's Sunday at Paz de Dios

This past Sunday was "New Member's Sunday" at Paz de Dios, but all the preparation began on Saturday.  At 6:00 Saturday morning, 25 of us (mostly men) got together, and drove high up in the mountains to hunt a wild bull.  The family of one of the elders owns large areas of land in the mountains and lets their cattle run wild.  Roping the bull was quite uneventful (as far as roping goes), and then we butchered and quartered the bull right up on the mountain.  It was neat to see all the talents in the church at play.  The cowboy went and rounded up the bull, the butcher directed butchering the bull, and the doctor helped bandage the butcher's hand when he cut it.
 
Unfortunately, about an hour after we arrived, it began to rain.  By the time we were ready to leave, the road into the ranch was in bad shape.  It took us over an hour to get all 6 cars past the first mile.  There were times when 8 men pushing could not get the car out, and to top it all of, one tire went flat for a sharp rock.  It was not fun changing the tire in the cold pouring rain and mud.  All in all, everyone was great sports and we certainly made some memories together. 
 
On arrival to the church with the meat, all the ladies were waiting for us and began to cut up the meat.  It tasted so good the following day bbq'ed with Ecuadorian spices.  The meat in the states just doesn't quite match up with the flavor and spices they put on the meat here. 
 
On Sunday, the church received new members during the church service and then eat the meal together.  After that, a PE teacher who attends the church, organized the games.  It was so neat to see his creativity and how he included all ages.  After his games, we played soccer, volleyball, and basket together.  It is such an encouragement to see the church's growth and unity.  I feel so blessed to be able to be a part of if. 

Wednesday, January 14, 2009

Sights around town

We went downtown today with two of the homeschool kids this afternoon.  It was a good time of fellowship, and it was fun to see the city as well.  We had ice-cream together and had a good time to encourage them in their walk with the Lord.

Guinea Pig

Guinea Pig happens to be a delicacy here in Cuenca.  One of the elders from the church invited us over last Sunday to roast a few.  It was such a fun time and great memories.  The Lord has surely blessed with many friends.